Top 3 Most Common RV Issues

If you’re like most RV owners, your RV is your pride and joy. It’s the freedom to pick up and leave for an adventure at a moment’s notice. So the last thing you’d want is an issue that takes you off the road for an extended amount of time. Today, we’re talking about the top 3 most common RV issues and what to do about them.

1. Electrical Problems

It’s inevitable, your RV is likely to run into electrical problems from time to time. Wires coming loose, switches or push buttons in your circuit breaker panel not working, malfunctioning outlets, and many more potential problems that may pop up. 

Unless you’re an electrician, it’s probably a good idea to hire a professional. DIY-ing the job can lead to serious injury or even death. 

2. Leaky Roof

With regular maintenance and inspections both inside, and outside you can hopefully catch a leak before it happens. Check for water stains, sealant damage, or soft flooring. Soft spots on the roof could indicate severe damage. 

We recommend a self-leveling sealant like Dicor if you have a leak to fill any loose gaps. 

Anything that requires more attention should be consulted by a certified RV technician.

3. Slide Out Problems 

We all love the extra space of a good slide out, but there may be some drawbacks. These parts are vulnerable to rust, corrosion, and just plain old age. Preforming regular maintenance can help keep your slide outs in proper working order for a long time. 

First things first, check the power supply to rule out a blown fuse, bad wiring, or a weak battery. Be sure you have enough power for the slide-out to function properly and double check that it’s not misaligned or blocked. 

Check the wiring for loose wires. You can use a voltmeter to check the power while another person operates the slide switch. If the motor is receiving power but there is not slide movement, the motor may have failed.

If you still can’t get the slide to work, you may be able to take it in manually. Check the owner’s manual to see how to properly do this. If issues are more severe than basic maintenance, we recommend contacting a certified RV technician.

Although RV issues are bound to happen, with regular maintenance and inspections, you can stay on top of your RV issues. You can get a once-a-year check up with a dealer who can provide you with an inspection, fluid change, and other refreshers while your RV is there. 

Click here to learn how to tackle these common issues in our RV fundamentals class where you’ll learn how to save time and money by keeping your RV on the road and out of the repair shop.